In this edition of the VOX Bubble, students attending the Silence the Shame University Fest had the opportunity to speak up about mental health, answering the questions: How do you take care of your mental health, and how do you know these methods are effective?”
Let’s see what they said.
Journaling and staying ahead in school is how I take care of my mental health. I know these methods are effective because I haven’t crashed out yet. – Hope, 18
I play video games to help with stress. I know it helps because I can laugh with friends. – Aalan, 18
I take care of my mental health by putting it first and verbally checking in with myself and taking breaks when needed! I know my methods are effective because they produce results. – Savannah, 17
I take care of my mental health by talking with my friends and going to therapy. – Svea, 19
I take care of my mental health by using my safety plan and contacting my support system. These are effective because I have less burnout and overstimulation. – Ainkaamara, 18
I take care of my mental health by realizing when I need to recharge and taking breaks. I like to sing and listen to music. I know the methods are effective because I feel so much better after I do it. – Caleb, 19
I take care of my mental health by going to a different environment. This works because it gives me a break from reality. – Kaleigha, 18
WATCH: Teens Speak Out About How They Take Care Of Their Mental Health
If you or someone you know needs support, please text or call one of these resources:
9-8-8 GA – 24/7/365 hotline – Please call 9-8-8 if you or someone you know in Georgia is experiencing a mental health crisis. The 9-8-8 line serves all languages and also has a chat function.
Georgia Crisis & Access Line — (GCAL) – 1-800-715-4225, available 24/7. The free MYGCAP app is specific for teens, too, and has a chat function!
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-TALK (8255) also offers 24/7 connection with a trained counselor at a local crisis center, or Text “START” to 741-741
The Trevor Project – Suicide prevention hotline for LGTBQ youth ages 13-24, 24/7/365. Text START to 678-678 to connect to a counselor “who is understanding of LGBTQ issues and won’t judge …. messages are anonymous.” notOK app is a free digital panic button created by local teens to get immediate support via text, call, or GPS location when you’re struggling to reach out.
